Watching television is a national pastime – we spend nearly half as much time in front of a TV as we do in our beds – and sometimes do both at the same time.  So what is the best way to watch – Over-the-Air TV, Cable TV, Satellite TV or Live TV Online?  It’s a question that everyone wants answered – but there isn’t just one solution.  Each format has its advantages, given the circumstances involved. 

Let’s look at the different aspects of television viewing and assess the differences.

Quality of image.  Of course, this is the first thing to consider.  We all want the best picture we can get.  With the recent switch requiring digital transmissions over the air, the quality of TV broadcasts is now roughly equivalent, regardless of delivery method.

Viewing choices.  Remember when Cable TV and 50 channels were unbelievable?  While Over-the-Air TV is still limited (albeit the best for local programming), the number of options on Cable TV has increased, (typically 75 – 200 channels) Satellite TV has even more (over 250 on average), but Live TV Online continues to grow, with thousands of channels available now with more coming on board every day.

Accessibility.  This is perhaps the area where Over-the-Air TV is strongest, given the ability to watch in any location (provided reception is adequate).  On the other end of the spectrum, Cable and Satellite TV are most limited, bound by a hard connection to the cable network or the satellite dish.  However, Live TV Online is only limited by access to the Internet – whether directly connected to a network, via Wi-Fi, or through your cellular provider.

Hardware and Installation.  Here’s where Live TV Online shines – it takes only minutes to download the software and start watching – and without the need for any additional hardware or connections.  Satellite TV involves an arduous installation effort, Cable TV requires an installer to be scheduled and equipment to be added.

Pricing.  Well, we know we can’t beat the price of Over-the-Air TV – it’s free.  But while Cable TV and Satellite TV involve start-up fees and recurring monthly charges, Live TV Online typically involves just a small one-time cost for the software, and no ongoing fees of any kind.

The best thing of all is that there are choices and options.  Every television delivery system has benefits.  However, it’s hard to beat the low cost and tremendous viewing options that Live TV Online has to offer.